RESCUERS HATCH PLANS FOR OLD PROBATE BUILDING

The blue tarp draped over the old probate court building isn't there for decoration; it's to keep the slate shingles from falling down and to protect the interior from rainwater.

Over the years, the building on Wilcox Street has been used for a thrift shop, and the historical society has rented it to some architects' firms.

The building, which has been vacant for about two years, may be deteriorating now, but the historical society's members and town officials want to see it preserved. Fund- raising efforts and a search for grant money are under way.

"It's an historic probate court building that still has the old walk- in vault and reflects the era of the late 1800s. That's kind of special," said Evan Woollacott, president of the Simsbury Historical Society. He added that the historical society did not have the money needed to restore the building, originally constructed in 1876.

The one-story, brick, Gothic Revival structure is situated near the Fleet Bank drive-through windows. An architect's survey, provided free by Schoenhardt Associates, estimates that $70,000 is needed to restore the original slate-shingled roof, repair the stone masonry exterior and upgrade water, sewer and electrical systems.

The goal is to have the building completely restored in time for next year's 325th town anniversary celebration. The historical society has applied to be included in the Neighborhood Assistance Act program in which the state awards tax credits to businesses that donate to eligible nonprofit groups.

First Selectman Mary Glassman said the town staff has been working with the historical society to determine what other grants are available for the restoration and whether the town can provide any in-kind services. Leslie Cosgrove, the town's economic development coordinator, said she talked to chamber of commerce members about the project on Wednesday and will make an appeal for donations in the chamber newsletter.

The historical society's members have suggested that the restored building could be used as a local visitors' center.